The immediate-past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s security remains in capable hands under the leadership of the current Service Chiefs appointed by President Bola Tinubu.
General Musa made this known on Friday during his valedictory speech at the Pulling Out Parade organised in his honour in Abuja. The ceremony marked the official conclusion of his 39 years and four months of distinguished service to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The retired military chief, who described the event as a sacred military tradition, said it symbolised not only the end of his career in active service but also the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
“As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am deeply humbled by the privilege of having served my country,” Musa said, noting that he was leaving the Armed Forces with a “clear conscience,” having given his best to the nation.
He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting him the opportunity to serve as Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
“It has been an incredible honour, and I do not take it for granted. We shall remain loyal and committed to the cause, even in retirement. Together, we will continue to ensure that our Armed Forces and security agencies are able to fulfil their responsibilities with excellence,” he stated.
General Musa also extended appreciation to the Nigerian Army and the entire Armed Forces for the opportunity to serve the nation for nearly four decades.
While congratulating his successor, General Olufemi Oluyede, the current Chief of Defence Staff, and the newly appointed Service Chiefs, Musa pledged his full support to them as they continue the vital work of protecting Nigeria.
“The security of our nation is in capable hands, and I urge all personnel and civilians alike to continue serving with the same loyalty, dedication, and professionalism that you have shown me,” he said.
Reflecting on his personal life, General Musa paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Mrs. Oghogho Lilian Musa, and his children—Kuyet, Yashinbobai, and Indi—describing them as his greatest source of strength.
“To my dear wife and my wonderful children, you have been my rock. You endured my long absences, the anxiety of my deployments, and the constant concern for my safety. You are the unsung heroes of my service, and I owe you more than words can express,” he said.
In his address to officers and men of the Armed Forces, General Musa described them as “the true heroes of the nation,” commending their courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“I have had the privilege of serving alongside giants. I’ve witnessed your courage in the face of adversity, your resilience in the harshest conditions, and your unshakable commitment to our country. You are the best among us, and it has been the greatest honour of my life to be your comrade and leader,” he said.
He urged the troops to remain steadfast and uphold the principles of loyalty, sacrifice, and selfless service to the nation.
“Never lose faith. Remain steadfast in your duties and uphold the values of loyalty and sacrifice. Remember: defeat is temporary, but victory is forever. Keep believing in Nigeria—it is a nation worth fighting for,” Musa advised.
He also commended the Nigerian people, especially the youth, for their support and resilience. “Your prayers, encouragement, and belief in a better, safer Nigeria have been the wind beneath our wings,” he noted.
General Musa further appreciated the Nigerian media for their constructive contributions to national security and extended gratitude to the Nigerian Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and other security institutions for their cooperation and teamwork.
“As I retire my uniform today, I do so with a clear conscience, knowing that I gave my all. I leave with cherished memories of camaraderie, shared struggles, and the victories we achieved together as one family,” he said.
He concluded with a message of continued patriotism: “While the sound of the drill may fade for me, the heart of a soldier beats forever. I may be retiring from active service, but I will never retire from my love for Nigeria. I remain a soldier at heart—a patriot committed to the Constitution and sovereignty of our great nation.”
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